ATLANTA, Ga. -- Former UGA lineman Rennie Curran, in conjunction with MAP International, is hosting an art auction to aid in the fight against the buruli ulcer in Africa.

Virtually obsolete in the United States, the Buruli ulcer or Bairnsdale ulcer, a chronic debilitating skin disease affects many people in western Africa; nearly half of those affected by the disease are children under 15-year-old.

The art auction features sports-themed art crafted by local sports artist Dylan Ross. Proceeds from the event will benefit Curran's parents native, Liberia.

"My dream is to raise awareness of Liberia and support the country's efforts to deal with critical challenges like healthcare, and in particular, Buruli ulcer," said Mr. Curran. "Liberia has a rich history and natural beauty few people know about."